It’s summer in the Pacific Northwest and hot days above 85 degrees are on the horizon. To keep yourself cool this year, investing in a new portable AC or window unit might just be your best option.
No more sitting in the car with the engine running or spending the day at the movies just for a few relieving moments of AC when you opt for one of these best-rated portable air conditioners listed below, available from national retailers like Target, Walmart, Lowes, and Home Depot. Some even have fast, free shipping depending on your location.
How do I pick the right AC for me? What size is best for my home?
The ability of an air conditioner to cool your home—known as the cooling capacity—will dictate how large of a space you can use it in. To find out your room size and learn more about buying the right cooling equipment or portable air conditioner for your family, check out Home Depot’s handy air conditioner buying guide.
What is the difference between a portable AC and a window unit?
The main difference between a window air conditioner and a portable unit is that the window option sits mounted in a chosen window of your home with access to air from outside, while a portable can be moved around the room as long as the vent hose has access to the outside through a door, window, or designated opening. According to Consumer Reports, a window AC uses outside air to cool the coils on the outdoor part of the unit, while a single-hose portable AC uses conditioned air from the room it’s in to cool the mechanicals and provide colder air blowing back at you. For a look at how to install a window unit, check out the helpful video guide below, courtesy of Home Depot.
Best cost-effecting air conditioners for Summer 2024:
- This Whynter 9,500 BTU Portable Air Conditioner can cool 500 sq. ft. with its 9,500 BTU power and comes equipped with a carbon filter and dehumidifier. The remote makes it easy to control from anywhere in the space and it includes an exhaust hose and convenient window kit. Get in by June 7 with free delivery.
- The Newair 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is currently almost 20% off, saving you around $100. Not sold in stores, this model is only sold online and has a programmable timer, thermostat, and fan speeds. It comes with a window venting kit, self-evaporating system, and can cool a medium sized room with its 14,000 BTU power. Free shipping is available.
- The bestselling GE 5,000 BTU Mechanical Window Air Conditioner is one of the lowest price options for cooling a smaller room. It’s a window model with 5,000 BTU and comes with two cooling and fan speed settings, as well as an adjustable thermostat. At under $200, you can get it as soon as tomorrow with or within 3-hours with free store pickup.
- The Frigidaire 8,000 BTU Window Room Air Conditioner is currently on sale and features 8,000 BTU power to cool a medium sized room. Another window AC unit, it comes with optional 3 or 4 year protection plans, an easy-to-clean washable filter, and a timer than you can program to fit your schedule. Free shipping is available.
- The highly rated LifePlus Portable Air Conditioner is a favorite among customer reviews and is currently $60 off. It comes with a dehumidifier, easy-install window kit with hose, optional 3 or 4 year protection plans, and remote control for easy access wherever you are in the room. Free shipping is available this weekend.
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